NBA legend Magic Johnson disclosed on Tuesday his willingness to consider ownership of the New York Knicks, diverging from his consistent preference for his beloved Los Angeles Lakers. Although he has declined multiple NBA ownership offers from teams including the Golden State Warriors, Detroit Pistons, and Atlanta Hawks to avoid competing with the Lakers, Johnson admitted that the Knicks presented an attractive exception.
“I think it would be intriguing,” Johnson stated during a speaking engagement at a New York YMCA, referring to the potential ownership of the Knicks. Johnson stated the passion and intelligence of Knicks fans as a significant factor in his consideration, acknowledging the unique appeal of the franchise.
“I love coming to New York and going to the Garden and watching the Knicks play,” Johnson added, reflecting on his affection for the exciting basketball environment in New York.
However, Johnson clarified that he has not engaged in discussions with Madison Square Garden Executive Chairman James Dolan regarding potential ownership. Additionally, the exact amount of money Johnson would need to invest to own the Knicks is unknown.
“Only team I’d actually probably think about is the Knicks…I love coming to New York & the Garden…fans…so passionate…smart…I’d probably never think about being part of another franchise”
– Magic Johnson, who’s turned down several NBA ownership stakes https://t.co/IU4uyjyYM6 pic.twitter.com/otJLdCjd7M
— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) September 26, 2023
Magic Johnson served as the Lakers president of basketball operations for two seasons before resigning in 2019. Interestingly, he expressed openness to a conversation about minority ownership of the Knicks if the opportunity came up.
Magic Johnson’s support for health education and views on the Lakers
Beyond basketball, Johnson continues to be a passionate advocate for health education. At the event on Tuesday, Johnson highlighted the importance of awareness and early detection in fighting Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a dangerous virus affecting the respiratory system. This project is part of the “Sideline RSV” campaign from GSK, formerly known as GlaxoSmithKline, which Johnson strongly supports.
“I’ve always talked about, whether it was HIV, AIDS, and now RSV, it’s really important that I come to the people,” Johnson highlighted the importance of direct communication and timely medical check-ups for ensuring optimal health.
We’re excited to announce #SidelineRSV! Together w/ @MagicJohnson, a Sideline RSV spokesperson, we’re committed to raising awareness about #RSV & the potential risk for severe infection in older adults & adults w/ underlying conditions like COPD, asthma or chronic heart failure.
— GSK US (@GSKUS) March 14, 2023
“It’s one thing to do a commercial,” Johnson said. “It’s another thing to be live and in person and shake people’s hands and really tell them: ‘Look, get your physicals. If you’re feeling something, go to the doctor,’ because a lot of times what happens, we don’t go when we first feel something, right, and RSV, you can be a healthy person and don’t even know you have it.”
Johnson concluded by expressing optimism about the Lakers’ future, stating his belief in the team’s potential to secure a second NBA title in five years. “I think they’re going to be the best team in the West this year.”